NFL Mid-Season Review

The 2018-2019 NFL season is half-way done. There have been a lot of surprises and disappointments. New faces are in the running for MVP and new teams have emerged as Super Bowl contenders. This article will journey through the NFL season, detailing the best and the worst takeaways.

Best Team: Los Angeles Rams

Even though the Rams were dominated by the New Orleans Saints this past Sunday, they still remain the best team in the NFL. Their offense is ranked number one in the league and their defense has been solid, ranking 13th in yards allowed and 10th in points allowed. Their defense will need to improve a bit more. The rest of their schedule is fairly easy. The only tough games are against the Kansas City Chiefs and the Chicago Bears.

Honorable Mentions: Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints

Most Surprising Team: Chicago Bears

Most experts chose either the Minnesota Vikings or the Green Bay Packers to lead the NFC North. But through nine weeks of the NFL season, the Bears sit on top of the division. The Bears’ defense has been outstanding, ranking 4th in points allowed and 5th in yards allowed. The acquisition of All-Pro linebacker Khalil Mack propelled the defense to familiar heights. The offense has been mediocre in terms of yardage but they are 5th in points per game. Quarterback Mitch Tribusky must continue his solid play if the Bears want to win the NFC North division.

Honorable Mentions: Carolina Panthers, Los Angeles Chargers

Most Disappointing Team: Denver Broncos

Through nine weeks, the Broncos have a record of 3-6. The Broncos were expected to compete for the AFC West crown but are currently third in the division. Quarterback Case Keenum has not lived up to expectations, only throwing 11 touchdowns to 10 interceptions. The Broncos are 5 games back from the division-leading Chiefs. They have lost six of their last seven games. It seems like the Broncos will miss the playoffs.

Honorable Mentions: Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Giants

MVP: QB Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs)

In his first season as a starter, Mahomes has proven himself worthy. Through nine games, Mahomes leads the league in passing yards and in passing touchdowns. Also, he his second in passer rating. Mahomes has thrown for at least three touchdowns in seven games, including a six touchdown performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Mahomes is on pace to shatter many Chiefs and league records.

Honorable Mentions: RB Todd Gurley, WR Adam Thelen

Defensive MVP: DE Danielle Hunter (Minnesota Vikings)

Hunter has been dominate for the Vikings. He leads the league in sacks with 11.5, which is an increase from his last season total of 7.0. Also, Hunter has recorded a sack in seven consecutive games. He is on pace to finish with at least 20 sacks. Hunter’s ferocious play has not only propelled the Vikings’ defense to greater heights, but has established him as one of the best defensive players in the NFL.